ONE of the region's best known country hotels has changed hands.

The Rose and Crown, at Romaldkirk, Teesdale, has been sold by Chris and Alison Davy to the owners of Headlam Hall, near Darlington.

John Robinson, his wife Ann and their family have owned the four-star Headlam Hall since 1978.

Thomas Robinson, Headlam’s managing director, said: “We are delighted to have acquired The Rose and Crown from the Davys, who have done an excellent job in building the business to the point where it is one of the finest inns in the region.

“One of the main reasons that we were attracted to it is the fact that it shares the same core values as our operation at Headlam – high quality accommodation, great locally sourced food, friendly service and a charming building.”

Chris and Alison Davy added: “We have had 23 enormously happy and successful years at The Rose and Crown. However, with retirement beckoning it is time to start enjoying life at a rather more leisurely pace.”

David Lee, of agents Christie and Co, said: “The sale of the Rose and Crown demonstrates that despite the difficult wider economic conditions, quality well performing hospitality businesses are still of interest to purchasers.”